The victory in November came after United had been beaten twice by Ards at Ballymena Showgrounds this season, and was sweet revenge after the North Down side had dumped United out of the Toals Co Antrim Shield at the quarter-final stage.

David Jeffrey celebrates one of United's goals in the 4-2 win over Ards in November

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Ards

Since the last meeting between the two sides, Ards have been without a win, losing in the league to Glenavon, Crusaders, Glentoran and Linfield, coming away with a point each against Ballinamallard United, Coleraine and Carrick Rangers, and getting knocked out of the Toals Co Antrim Shield at the semi-final stage by a rampant Linfield who ran out 6-1 winners. They've also had a change of manager in that time, with Niall Currie moving to Portadown and Colin Nixon taking the reigns. Colin has been in charge since the middle of December, taking his new side to 2 draws in their last 2 games.

Ballymena United

United have won 4 and lost 4 league games since the victory over Ards, and currently sit in 4th spot, 8 points clear of rivals Coleraine. They have also managed to secure 2 wins in the Northern Ireland League Cup to secure a place in the final against Carrick Rangers in February.